Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of manufacturing a plurality of radio-frequency-identification (RFID) bands, the method comprising: placing each of a plurality of RFID inlays on a first layer of material according to a fixed spatial interval representing a length of each RFID band; placing a second layer of material over the first layer to cover the plurality of RFID inlays; fusing the first layer to the second layer, such that together the first layer and the second layer are around the plurality of RFID inlays; perforating the first and second layers in a longitudinal line, along a longitudinal axis of the RFID bands, according to a fixed spatial interval, to define two separable sections of equal dimension in each RFID band; and perforating the first and second layers in lateral lines, that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, according to a fixed spatial interval, to define separable boundaries between adjacent RFID bands.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising spooling the fused and perforated first and second layers, comprising the separable plurality of RFID bands, around a cylindrical core, into a spool.
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a separable RFID band system, addressing the need for efficient production and handling of RFID bands that can be easily detached for individual use. The method involves fusing and perforating two layers of material to form a continuous web containing multiple RFID bands, which are separable along the perforations. The fused and perforated layers are then spooled around a cylindrical core to create a compact, easily transportable roll. This spooling process ensures that the RFID bands remain intact and properly aligned during storage and distribution, while allowing for easy unwinding and separation when needed. The method optimizes production efficiency by enabling high-speed manufacturing and convenient handling of the RFID bands in a roll format. The resulting product is suitable for applications requiring individual RFID tags or bands that can be quickly detached from a continuous supply.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the spool is configured to be fed into an RFID-enabled printer.
A system and method for managing and tracking spools of material, particularly in industrial or manufacturing environments, addresses the challenge of efficiently identifying and monitoring spools as they move through production processes. The invention involves a spool equipped with an RFID tag that stores unique identification data, allowing for automated tracking and inventory management. The spool is designed to be compatible with an RFID-enabled printer, which can read and write data to the tag. This enables real-time updates to spool status, such as material type, batch information, or usage history, directly from the printer. The RFID tag ensures accurate and rapid identification without manual intervention, reducing errors and improving workflow efficiency. The system may also include a database or networked system to log and retrieve spool data, facilitating better resource management and traceability. The integration of RFID technology with printing equipment streamlines operations by automating data capture and ensuring seamless tracking throughout the spool's lifecycle. This approach enhances productivity, minimizes material waste, and supports compliance with quality control standards.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising arranging the plurality of RFID inlays between the fused first and second layers, such that the plurality of RFID bands are formed in a two-dimensional sheet with perforated boundaries between adjacent ones of the plurality of RFID bands.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising stacking two or more sets of the plurality of RFID bands in a cassette.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of RFID inlays comprises an RFID antenna on a flexible substrate.
This invention relates to a system for tracking and managing items using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring and identifying multiple items in various environments, such as logistics, inventory management, or asset tracking, where traditional barcodes or manual tracking methods are inefficient or impractical. The invention involves a method for tracking items using a plurality of RFID inlays, each containing an RFID antenna on a flexible substrate. The flexible substrate allows the RFID inlays to be easily integrated into or attached to various items, including packaging, labels, or directly onto products. The RFID antennas enable wireless communication with an RFID reader, allowing for real-time tracking and identification of the items. The flexible nature of the substrate ensures durability and adaptability to different surfaces and shapes, making the system suitable for a wide range of applications. The method may also include additional features, such as encoding unique identifiers on each RFID inlay to distinguish between different items, or incorporating sensors into the inlays to monitor environmental conditions like temperature or humidity. The system can be used in supply chain management, retail inventory, healthcare asset tracking, or any scenario requiring automated identification and monitoring of items. The use of flexible substrates enhances the versatility and reliability of the RFID inlays, ensuring robust performance in diverse operational environments.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the flexible substrate has a thickness between 100 millimeters and 200 millimeters.
8. The method of claim 6 , wherein the flexible substrate comprises a polymer.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the material has a dielectric constant of four or less.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the material is infused with antimicrobial additives.
This invention relates to a method for treating materials to enhance their antimicrobial properties. The method involves infusing a material with antimicrobial additives to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The material may be any substance that can be treated with antimicrobial agents, including textiles, plastics, metals, or composites. The antimicrobial additives are selected based on their effectiveness against specific pathogens and their compatibility with the material. The infusion process ensures uniform distribution of the additives throughout the material, providing long-lasting protection. This method is particularly useful in applications where hygiene and infection control are critical, such as in medical devices, food packaging, or public infrastructure. The treated material maintains its original properties while gaining enhanced resistance to microbial contamination. The infusion process may involve chemical treatments, coatings, or impregnation techniques to embed the antimicrobial agents within the material structure. The resulting material is suitable for use in environments where microbial growth poses a health or safety risk.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the material is infused with hypoallergenic additives.
This invention relates to a method for processing materials, particularly for enhancing their properties by infusing them with hypoallergenic additives. The method addresses the problem of allergic reactions caused by certain materials, such as textiles, plastics, or other substances that come into contact with human skin. By incorporating hypoallergenic additives, the processed material becomes less likely to trigger allergic responses, improving safety and comfort for users. The method involves selecting a base material and treating it with hypoallergenic additives, which may include natural or synthetic compounds designed to neutralize or reduce allergenic properties. These additives can be integrated into the material through various techniques, such as coating, impregnation, or chemical bonding, depending on the material type and desired properties. The additives may also include antimicrobial agents to further enhance the material's safety and longevity. The infusion process ensures that the hypoallergenic properties are evenly distributed throughout the material, preventing localized allergic reactions. The method may also include additional steps, such as curing or drying, to stabilize the additives within the material. The resulting product is suitable for applications where skin contact is frequent, such as clothing, medical devices, or household items, providing a safer alternative to conventional materials.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the material is capable of being printed upon.
A system and method for processing materials involves a material that can be printed upon, enabling the application of visual or functional coatings. The material is designed to receive printed content, such as text, images, or functional layers, through techniques like inkjet, laser, or other printing methods. This capability allows for customization, labeling, or functional enhancement of the material. The printing process may involve applying inks, dyes, or other substances that adhere to the material's surface, ensuring durability and clarity. The material's printability ensures compatibility with standard or specialized printing equipment, making it adaptable for various applications, including packaging, signage, or electronic components. The system may include pre-treatment steps to optimize print adhesion or post-treatment steps to enhance print durability. The material's ability to be printed upon extends its utility in manufacturing, design, and industrial processes where customization and labeling are required.
13. The method of claim 1 , further comprising adding a fold line, along the longitudinal axis of the RFID bands, at a plurality of fixed spatial intervals, within a flag portion of each of the plurality of RFID bands, wherein the flag portion of each of the plurality of RFID bands contains the RFID inlay for that RFID band.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein adding the fold line comprises weakening the material.
This invention relates to a method for creating fold lines in materials, particularly for applications in packaging, manufacturing, or product assembly where precise folding is required. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable methods to create fold lines that allow materials to bend or fold consistently without tearing or misalignment. The invention provides a solution by weakening the material along a designated fold line, which facilitates controlled folding while maintaining structural integrity. The method involves selecting a material, such as paper, cardboard, plastic, or metal, and determining the desired fold line location. The material is then weakened along this line using techniques like scoring, perforating, embossing, or laser cutting. Weakening the material reduces its resistance to bending, ensuring that the fold occurs precisely along the intended line. This process is particularly useful in automated manufacturing environments where consistent folding is critical for assembly or packaging operations. The weakened fold line allows for smooth, repeatable folding without the need for excessive force, reducing the risk of material damage or misalignment. The invention may also include additional steps such as reinforcing the material around the fold line to prevent tearing or further weakening. The method is applicable to various industries, including packaging, electronics, and automotive manufacturing, where precise folding of materials is essential.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein weakening the material comprises scoring the material.
A method for processing materials involves weakening the material to facilitate subsequent separation or modification. The weakening process includes scoring the material, which involves creating a partial cut or groove along a predetermined path to reduce structural integrity without fully severing the material. This scoring technique is particularly useful in applications where controlled fracture or separation is desired, such as in manufacturing, construction, or material handling. The method may be applied to various materials, including metals, plastics, composites, or other substances that require precise weakening for further processing. The scoring step ensures that the material can be broken or separated along the scored line with minimal force, improving efficiency and accuracy in subsequent operations. This approach is beneficial in scenarios where traditional cutting methods may be impractical or where controlled breakage is necessary for quality or safety reasons. The method may also include additional steps, such as aligning the material or applying pressure to achieve the desired weakening effect. The scoring process can be performed using mechanical, thermal, or chemical techniques, depending on the material properties and application requirements.
16. The method of claim 13 , wherein the flag portion of each of the plurality of RFID bands contains the RFID inlay for that RFID band on only a first side of the fold line.
17. The method of claim 16 , further comprising placing each of a plurality of displays on an exterior surface of either the first layer or the second layer, according to a fixed spatial interval, such that each of the plurality of RFID bands comprises one of the plurality of displays on a second side of the fold line that is opposite the first side of the fold line.
This invention relates to a system for managing and displaying information using RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology and foldable structures. The problem addressed is the need for an efficient way to organize and present data in a compact, portable format while ensuring secure and accurate tracking of items. The system includes a foldable structure with at least two layers, where each layer has a fold line that allows the structure to be folded along the line. The layers are connected in a way that enables the structure to be folded into a compact form. Multiple RFID bands are embedded within the foldable structure, with each band containing an RFID tag that stores data. The RFID tags are positioned such that when the structure is folded, the tags are aligned in a specific arrangement to facilitate reading and writing of data. Additionally, the system includes a plurality of displays placed on the exterior surface of either of the two layers at fixed spatial intervals. Each display is positioned on the opposite side of the fold line relative to the RFID bands, ensuring that the displays remain visible and accessible when the structure is folded. The displays are used to present information stored on the RFID tags, providing a visual interface for users to interact with the data. This setup allows for efficient tracking and management of items while maintaining a compact and portable design.
18. The method of claim 17 , wherein each of the plurality of displays is configured to display one of a plurality of colors.
19. The method of claim 16 , further comprising placing each of a plurality of fingerprint sensors on an exterior surface of either the first layer or the second layer, according to a fixed spatial interval, such that each of the plurality of RFID bands comprises one of the plurality of fingerprint sensors on a second side of the fold line that is opposite the first side of the fold line.
20. The method of claim 13 , wherein the flag portion of each of the plurality of RFID bands contains an RFID inlay on both sides of the fold line.
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March 9, 2021
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